A nurse is preparing to perform a heel stick using a spring-loaded automatic puncture device on a 1-week-old infant. In which of the following locations should the nurse puncture the infant's foot? (You will find hot spots to select in the artwork below. Select only the hot spot that corresponds to your answer.)

A. Lateral aspect: The preferred location for performing a heel stick on a neonate is the lateral (outer) aspect of the heel, avoiding the central area and the arch of the foot. This area contains fewer nerve endings and less tissue, making it safer and less painful for the infant. It also minimizes the risk of injury to the underlying bones, blood vessels, and nerves. B. Heel: The heel is not recommended as a puncture site because it contains fat, bone, and nerves, and puncturing the heel could cause injury or complications such as osteochondritis (bone infection). This site also carries a higher risk of injury to blood vessels and tendons. C. Medial aspect: The medial (inner) aspect of the heel is also not recommended because it is near the medial plantar artery and nerves. Puncturing this area could result in damage to these structures, leading to complications. The lateral aspect is a safer, preferred location.